St. Arethas of Najran – Martyr of Faith in 6th-Century Arabia

ST. ARETHAS

St. Arethas was a Christian leader and martyr of the 6th century who died defending his faith during a brutal persecution in Najran, Yemen.

St. Arethas of Najran was a prominent Christian lay leader and governor in the Arabian city of Najran during the early 6th century, a time when the region was under the rule of the Himyarite king Dhu Nuwas, a Jewish convert known for his persecution of Christians. Arethas was already elderly at the time of the persecution but was deeply respected by the Christian community and renowned for his wisdom and leadership.

In 523 AD, Dhu Nuwas launched a violent campaign against the Christians of Najran, demanding their conversion to Judaism or execution. St. Arethas, refusing to abandon his Christian faith, stood as a symbol of resistance and fidelity to Christ. He encouraged the local faithful to hold firm in their belief and not yield under pressure.

Eventually, Arethas and many others were captured. Despite threats and promises of reward, he resolutely declared his allegiance to Christ. Along with hundreds of other Christians, he was beheaded on October 24, 523. Eyewitness accounts and the Martyrology recount the courage of these early martyrs who chose death over apostasy. Arethas' story spread quickly throughout the Christian world and inspired devotion in both Eastern and Western churches.

His martyrdom, along with that of his companions, was recorded in early Christian writings and later commemorated in liturgical calendars. The story of Najran's martyrs remains a powerful example of courage and fidelity to faith in the face of persecution.

Feast Day

24-10-

Birth Date

--470

Died Date

24-10-523

Canonised Date

--N/A

Najran, kingdom of Saudi Arabia

St. Arethas, courageous martyr of Christ, intercede for us that we may remain faithful in trials and endure suffering with unwavering love for God. Amen.
ST. ARETHAS

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ST. ARETHAS

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Credits & Acknowledgments

Anudina Visudhar (Malayalam) – Life of Saints for Everyday
by Msgr. Thomas Moothedan, M.A., D.D.
Saint Companions for Each Day
by A. J. M. Mausolfe & J. K. Mausolfe
US Catholic (Faith in Real Life) – Informational articles
Wikipedia – General reference content and images
Anastpaul.com – Saint images and reflections
Pravachaka Sabdam (Malayalam) – Saint-related content and insights

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